TAX & LICENSE / STATE TAX SYSTEM
Newcomers to Texas can look forward to a high quality of life in a state with no personal income tax, no state property taxes, and no unitary tax. Even local property taxes are relatively low. For assistance with tax-related issues or answers to questions about taxes in Texas, contact:
Comptroller of Public Accounts
https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/
Field Office
Austin Field Office
1711 San Jacinto Boulevard
Austin 512-463-4865
Sales Tax
The Texas sales tax rate is 6.25 percent, although local sales and use taxes imposed by local jurisdictions include cities, counties, special purpose districts, and transit authorities. In general, the combined rate cannot exceed 2 percent, which makes 8.25 percent the highest rate. The following website offers information on local tax rates:
Local Sales & Use Tax Rate Information
https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/sales/
Gasoline Tax
Fuels used to operate motor vehicles are taxed at a rate of 20 cents per gallon. These include gasoline, liquefied petroleum, and diesel.
Property Taxes
Also known as “ad valorem” taxes, property taxes are locally assessed. The county appraisal district appraises the property; local taxing units set the tax rates and collect property taxes based on appraised values. Local taxing units such as city, county, school, and special districts prepare a budget and set tax rates high enough to raise sufficient funds.
The property tax year goes through four stages: appraisal of property, protesting appraisals, formulating tax rates, and collecting the taxes. Property owners over 65 years of age and owners who are totally disabled can claim certain exemptions. For more information, contact your county tax officials:
Tax Assessor
Bell County
254-933-5318
https://www.bellcountytx.com/
Brazos County
979-775-9930
www.brazoscountytx.gov
Coryell County
254-865-5911
www.coryellcountytax.com
Hamilton County
254-386-1230
http://www.co.hamilton.tx.us/
Hays County
512-393-5545
https://hayscountytx.com/
Travis County
512-854-9473
https://tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/
Williamson County
512-943-1602
https://www.wilco.org/taxoffice
